Strata Security – What you can do to protect your strata property

When it comes to security it is important to know that all strata schemes, old and new, can be susceptible to unauthorized entry and illegal conduct. High rise apartments and gated communities are just as vulnerable as other homes without additional security barriers. Statistics show that of 1,000 high rise apartments, 197 will be burgled, so don’t assume you are safe from burglars in a high rise apartment or gated community.

Most modern buildings have security measures such as CCTV cameras already in place but that is not always enough to deter trespassers and criminals from entering the premises. Often the best way to protect your family, home and community is to put extra security measures in place and keep watch. Protecting your building from intruders can be as simple as closing and locking doors behind you, taking notice of suspicious people and reporting them to security, on-site manager if you have one or the police. Make sure that valuable items, such as laptops, phones and wallets are out of sight and that your contents insurance includes theft. If you are renting your unit, don’t forget to inform your tenants about security measures to contribute to a safer and more secure strata community.

Below we have provided more ways on how you can protect your strata property:

•Ensure balconies and windows are locked at night and when the property is unoccupied.

•Replace fly screens with security screens if you tend to leave windows and doors open during the warmer months.

•Ensure the garage door or outer main doors are locked behind you, and don’t let strangers follow you into the building.

•Take notice of suspicious people and report them to relevant authorities.

•Get to know your neighbours. Often your community will feel much safer if you get to know familiar faces.

•If there is an intruder in your complex you should contact the authorities’ immediately taking note of their description, time and activity.

•If not already in place, consider installing CCTV cameras to increase the security in your building.

•Make sure to lock your mail box. Strata buildings are often targeted for identity theft.

•Don’t allow strangers to tailgate you into the garage, and don’t buzz them inside the building.

•If you are considering increasing the security measures in your strata property, always make sure to speak to your Body Corporate before taking action.

This article was contributed by Grant Mifsud – Partner, Archers the Strata Professionals